Step inside one of the world's great fortified wine estates — a 200-year-old merchant lodge in the heart of Funchal — for a private tasting masterclass led by a dedicated sommelier. The only way to truly understand Madeira wine.
What to expect
Pass through the cobbled courtyard of the Adegas de São Francisco into centuries of winemaking history. Your sommelier leads you through sun-drenched lofts where Madeira wine undergoes its unique estufagem heating process. The tasting progresses from a crisp 5-year Sercial to a complex, caramel-laced 15-year Malmsey. Private bookings include back-vintage library wines unavailable on the standard tour. The lodge shop offers bottles to take back aboard.
Good to know
The lodge is a 10-minute walk from the cruise pier — no transfers needed. Standard tours run daily; private masterclasses must be arranged 48 hours in advance via the website. Allow 90 minutes for the premium experience. Closed Sundays.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Funchal — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Funchal
- Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: Madeira's Rooftop Ridge Walk
- Monte Palace Toboggan & Cable Car: Funchal's Iconic Descent
- VIP Whale & Dolphin Watching: Luxury Catamaran from Funchal
- Full-Day Private Jeep Safari: Levadas, Villages & Laurisilva Forest
- Funchal Old Town & Mercado dos Lavradores: Private Walking Masterclass